Method of and apparatus for automatically coating the human body

ABSTRACT

In a system for coating human skin, a chemical composition, such as a cosmetic or medical formulation, is uniformly coated over the entire body or selected parts of the body of the person being coated. The system includes atomization of the coating composition, containment of the atomized spray, and residual recovery which together yield a novel method for applying chemical compositions.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of application Ser.No. 08/946,764, filed Oct. 8, 1997, currently pending.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates generally to systems forautomatically coating the human body or selected parts thereof withpredetermined fluids. More particularly, the invention relates to anautomated self-tanning system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The application of various fluids to all or selected parts of thehuman body has been known literally for centuries. However, despite thelong standing and wide spread practice of coating the human body withvarious fluids, there has never been a successful way of automaticallycoating the human body. Therefore, prior to the present invention, ithas been necessary to apply fluids to the body manually.

[0004] Manual application of fluids to the human body results innumerous disadvantages. First, it is almost impossible to uniformly coatthe human body with fluids using manual application techniques. This istrue even in the case of fluids that are provided in aerosol or sprayform because such fluids must be rubbed in after application. Second,the application of fluids to certain parts of the human body, forexample, the back, require the availability of an assistant in orderthat proper manual application can be attempted.

[0005] The foregoing difficulties are particularly apparent in the caseof artificial tanning processes. Artificial tanning has been known formore than 40 years, with artificial tanning products appearing on theU.S. market as early as 1959. The two key types of tanning processes areby colorants and bronzers.

[0006] Tanning by colorants is based on the color reaction which occursbetween components of the skin and the colorant. The most commonly usedchemical for artificial tanning is dihydroxyacetone (DHA). It is widelyused in commercial artificial tanning products, and is recognized assafe and effective by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). DHAreacts solely with the stratum comeum. It interacts with amines,peptides and free amino acids to generate a Maillard reaction. Theresulting products are cyclic and linear polymers that have a yellow orbrown color.

[0007]

[0008] Two common bronzers are juglone and lawsone. Both arenaphthoquinones. When applied to skin, lawsone produces an orange hueand juglone produces a greenish-brown tan. They are sometimes used incombination with DHA to modify the color or hue of the tan or tointensify the color.

[0009] Numerous forms of artificial tanning products are now on themarket. They include:

[0010] lotions,

[0011] creams,

[0012] gels,

[0013] oils,

[0014] sprays.

[0015] These products are mixtures of a chemically-active skin colorantor a bronzer with combinations of the following:

[0016] moisturizers,

[0017] preservatives,

[0018] antimicrobials,

[0019] thickeners,

[0020] solvents,

[0021] emulsifiers,

[0022] fragrances,

[0023] surfactants,

[0024] stabilizers,

[0025] sun-screens,

[0026] pH adjusters

[0027] anti-caking agents,

[0028] ingredients to alter the color reaction.

[0029] Users of these products often experience significant problemsassociated with the current methods for applying artificial tanningformations to skin. These problems include the following.

[0030] If not properly dried, the formulation will streak or formblotches with time. The net result is a very non-uniform tan, with lightor dark streaks or blotches.

[0031] Certain parts of the body will stain more intensely when theformulation is spread manually. This differential staining is due toenhance absorption of certain skin tissue and the tendency of certaintissue to retain more formulation. The result is that as the formulationis being spread manually, certain tissue absorb or trap more formulation(e.g., the wrinkles in the elbows and knees and the dense tissue in thepalms).

[0032] Most products designed formanual application require componentssuch as thickeners and polymers, which often inhibit the efficacy ofDHA.

[0033] Current formulations typically take about 20 minutes to dry tothe touch, and about 1 hour before not transferring from skin totextiles.

[0034] Application of artificial tanning products is additionallycomplicated by the tendency of these formulations to stain materialscontaining amine molecules, including certain fabrics, certain types ofcarpet, and certain wall coverings and paint.

[0035] In spite of all of these problems, artificial tanning is becomingincreasingly popular. It is apparent that a need exists for a superiorapplication system which solves the foregoing problems.

[0036] There is also a need for a superior applications system for manyother applications, including but not limited to:

[0037] self-tanning formulations,

[0038] sunscreens,

[0039] suntan lotions,

[0040] tanning accelerators,

[0041] sunburn treatments,

[0042] insect repellants,

[0043] skin toners,

[0044] skin bleaches,

[0045] skin lighteners,

[0046] anti-microbial compositions,

[0047] moisturizers,

[0048] exfoliants,

[0049] nutriments or vitamins,

[0050] massage aides,

[0051] muscle relaxants,

[0052] skin treatment agents,

[0053] bum treatment agents,

[0054] decontamination agents,

[0055] cosmetics,

[0056] wrinkle treatments or removers.

[0057] There are specific and significant problems with the manualcoating of each of these products. The artificial tanning applicationprovides a good illustration of the types of problems normallyencountered when manually coating these products. Artificial tanning isalso one of the most demanding applications in that uniformity of thecoating is critical to assure uniform tanning.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0058] The present invention comprises a system for automaticallycoating the human body, including a method of and apparatus foruniformly and rapidly coating all or selected parts of the human body.The system includes apparatus which atomizes (also referred to asaerosolization, nebulization, mist generation, fog generation or spraygeneration) a chemical composition and deposits it uniformly over all orselected parts of the human body. It is not necessary for the individualreceiving the treatment nor anyone else to manually apply any of theformulation. Also, a containment system is provided which restrains andcollects residue from the application process. The system can optionallyrecycle the materials used.

[0059] There are several major advantages resulting from the use of theinvention:

[0060] Uniform application minimizes or eliminates streaking,

[0061] No assistant is required for applying the composition,

[0062] The entire skin surface receives the same exposure to thecomposition, so the uniformly of the coating is greatly enhanced overmanual application,

[0063] The optimal formulation for atomization is very simple, and doesnot require the addition of components which may inhibit the efficacy ofthe applied material,

[0064] The application time can be as quick as a few seconds, andcomplete drying can occur in just a few minutes,

[0065] The containment system drastically reduces the unwantedenvironmental impact,

[0066] Multiple applications can be used to better control the amount ofmaterial applied per unit area, and additional substances can be appliedin separate applications.

[0067] The invention may be practiced utilizing a unitary constructionincluding both a coating chamber and apparatus for coating a personsituated within the coating chamber. A door provides ingress to andegress from the coating chamber which is provided with verticallydisposed arrays of spray discharging nozzles situated at spaced apartpoints around the periphery of the chamber. A blower circulates airthrough the coating chamber to effect drying following the coatingprocedure and to aid in containment of excess spray. An air compressorsupplies liquid for coating and compressed air for spraying the coatingliquid to the nozzles situated within the coating chamber.

[0068] REFERENCES U.S. patent documents 3,932,151  1/1976 Lau  55/2294,231,289 11/1980 Domicent  98/115 5,268,166 12/1993 Barnett 424/047Foreign patent documents WO 94/12146  6/1994 PCT Int'l Appl. Otherpublications

[0069] Akins, F. J. and Marlowe, E., “Non-Carcinogenicity ofDihydroxyacetone by Skin Painting,” Journal of Environmental Pathologyand Toxicology, 5: No.5, pp. 349-351 (1984).

[0070] Federal Register, “Color Additive Dihydroxyacetone” 38: No. 148,p. 21615,2 Aug.1973.

[0071] Futterer, E., “Theory and Practice of Artificial Tanning:Literature and Patent Survey,” Cosmetics and Perfumes, 88: No.8,pp.31-33 (1973).

[0072] Johnson, J. A. and Fusaro, R. M., “Persistence of Skin Color andFluorescence after Treatment with Dihydroxyacetone,” Dermatology 188:pp.247 (1994).

[0073] Kurz, T., “Formulating Effective Self-Tanners with DHA,”Cosmetics and Toiletries, 109: No. 11, starting p. 55 (1994).

[0074] Levy, S. B., “Dihydroxyacetone-Containing Sunless or Self-tanningLotions,” Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 27: No. 6, pp.989-993 (1992).

[0075] “Spray Application Processes,” BINKS training brochure TD49-2R-4,August, 1995, BINKS Manufacturing Company, Franklin, Ill.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0076] A more complete understanding of the invention may be had byreference to the following Detailed Description when taken inconjunction with accompanied Drawings, wherein:

[0077]FIG. 1 is a flow chart illustrating the invention;

[0078]FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic illustration of the system forautomatically coating the human body of the present invention comprisingthe minimum requirements thereof;

[0079]FIG. 3 is an illustration similar to FIG. 2 wherein the system ofthe present invention is further provided with containment apparatus;

[0080]FIG. 4 is an illustration similar to FIG. 3 wherein the system ofthe present invention is further provided with an air ventilationapparatus;

[0081]FIG. 5 is an illustration similar to FIG. 4 wherein the system ofthe present invention is further provided with collection apparatus forresidual spray;

[0082]FIG. 6 is an illustration similar to FIG. 5 wherein the system ofthe present invention is further provided with apparatus to effectrotation of the human body being coated;

[0083]FIG. 7 is an illustration similar to FIG. 6 wherein the system ofthe present invention is further provided with multiple dischargenozzles;

[0084]FIG. 8 is an illustration similar to FIG. 5 wherein the system ofthe present invention is adapted to the coating of a selected part ofthe human body;

[0085]FIG. 9 is a front view of an apparatus useful in the practice ofthe invention;

[0086]FIG. 10 is a top view of the apparatus of FIG. 9;

[0087]FIG. 11 is an illustration of one of the spray columns of theapparatus of FIG. 9; and

[0088]FIG. 12 is an enlarged view illustrating the nozzle assembliesutilized in the spray columns of the apparatus of FIG. 9.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0089] Referring now to the Drawings, and particularly to FIG. 1, thesystem for automatically coating the human body of the present inventionmay comprise an automated coating system for numerous types offormulations, including but not limited to the application of:

[0090] self-tanning formulations,

[0091] sunscreens,

[0092] suntan lotions,

[0093] tanning accelerators,

[0094] sub-burn treatments,

[0095] insect repellants,

[0096] skin toners,

[0097] skin bleaches,

[0098] skin lighteners,

[0099] anti-microbial compositions,

[0100] moisturizers,

[0101] exfoliants,

[0102] nutriments or vitamins,

[0103] massage aides,

[0104] muscle relaxants,

[0105] skin treatment agents,

[0106] bum treatment agents,

[0107] decontamination agents,

[0108] cosmetics,

[0109] wrinkle treatments or removers.

[0110] The first component of such a system is the chemical composition.The suitability of a composition for coating is strongly influenced byits viscosity, with the preferred viscosity being close to that of water(1 centipoise). Compositions with viscosities in the 1 to 10 centipoiserange generally atomize well, and viscosities in the 10 to 100 range canbe atomized, but the resulting spray is not as fine. Higher viscositiescan be atomized, and will work, but the spray is not as fine. Mostcurrently marketed compositions of the aforementioned applications canbe made suitable for atomization either as is or with appropriatedilution.

[0111] By way of example, a more detailed description of functionalcompositions for use in practice of the invention will be based onartificial tanning compositions. Six such compositions are given inCompositions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. Individuals skilled in this art cancreate other compositions. Ingredient % COMPOSITION 1 Dihydroxyacetone 3Water 97 COMPOSITION 2 Dihydroxyacetone 3.0 Denatured Ethanol 20.0 Water77.0 COMPOSITION 3 Dihydroxyacetone 12.0 Denature Ethanol 20.0 Water68.0 COMPOSITION 4 Dihydroxyacetone 10.0 Commercial Sunless- 15.0Tanning Lotion Water 75.0 COMPOSITION 5 Dihydroxyacetone 9.0 Commercialmoisturizer 20.0 Citric acid 0.3 Commercial bath product 0.6 Bronzer 6.0Water 64.1

[0112] By way of example, a suitable commercial moisturizer wouldinclude Vaseline Brand Intensive Care Aloe and Naturals lotion(Chesebrough-Ponds, Greenwich, Conn.), and a suitable commercial bathproduct would include Vaseline Brand Intensive Care Foaming Creme Bath(Chesebrough-Ponds, Greenwich, Conn.). The bronzer is a combination ofFD&C dyes that yield a golden brown color. COMPOSITION 6 Ingredient %Bronzer 8.0 Commercial moisturizer 20.0 Commercial bath product 0.6Ethoxydiglycol 2.0 Water 69.4

[0113] By way of example, a suitable commercial moisturizer wouldinclude Vaseline Brand Intensive Care aloe and Naturals lotion(Chesebrough-Ponds, Greenwich, Conn.), and a suitable commercial bathproduct would include Vaseline Brand Intensive Care Foaming Creme Bath(Chesebrough-Ponds, Greenwich, Conn.). The bronzer is a combination ofFD&C dyes that yield a golden brown color.

[0114] By way of example, suitable commercial preparations includeCoppertone® Oil-Free Sunless Tanner (Schering-Plough, Memphis, Tenn.),Neutrogena® Glow Sunless Tanning Lotion for Face and Body (Neutrogena,Los Angeles, Calif.), and Kroger® Sunless Tanning Cream (Kroger,Cincinnati, Ohio).

[0115] Compositions 1, 2 and 3 are greatly simplified versions of theformulations now on the market or reported in the past. Thissimplification is possible due to the use of the present invention forapplying compositions to skin. These simplified compositions haveseveral advantages over more complex formulations, including:

[0116] faster drying,

[0117] less potential inhibition of DHA efficacy,

[0118] less potential for irritation from chemical components (becausethere are fewer components),

[0119] less residue on the skin,

[0120] less expensive,

[0121] more environmentally friendly.

[0122] Compositions 4 and 5 illustrate how a commercial formulation notparticularly well suited for atomization can be diluted, effectivelyatomized and uniformly coated on human skin. Similar dilutions ofproducts representing the other aforementioned applications can beeffectively atomized and coated on human skin.

[0123] There is no pH adjustment required for these compositions,although the pH can be adjusted to alter the hue of the resulting tanand to alter the dihydroxyacetone stability. The optimal tanning occurswith DHA at a pH of below 6.0, preferably with the solution at pH 3.0 to4.0. Unbuffered DHA has a pH of about 5.5. The pH on the surface ofhuman skin is also about 5.5. Nonetheless, these formulations can beused over a wide pH range, and buffers or pH adjusters can be added.

[0124] A preferred colorant is DHA. DHA is available from Rona(Hawthorne, N.Y.). It is effective, safe, and approved by the FDA forthis application. The preferred DHA concentrationis 0.5% to 20%, with amore preferred range of 3.0% to 15.0%, and a most preferred range of 5%to 12%.

[0125] Numerous other colorants can also be used. Those agents include,but are not limited to:

[0126] crotonaldehyde

[0127] pyruvaldehyde

[0128] glycolaldehyde

[0129] glutaraldehyde

[0130] otho-phthaldehyde

[0131] sorbose

[0132] fructose

[0133] erythrulose

[0134] methylvinylketone

[0135] food coloring

[0136] Various dyes and UV blocking agents can be covalently linked tothe colorant or can be mixed into the composition with the colorant.

[0137] Bronzers can also be used m combination with or as an alternativeto DHA. Bronzers which can be used include, but are not limited to,lawsone and juglone. Combinations of DHA and bronzers can also be used,and can be used to modify the resulting color (hue) and intensity of thetan. The preferred range for lawsone, juglone, and FD&C dyes is 0.5% to10.0% with the more preferred range of 1.0% to 5.0%.

[0138] Composition 6 is an example of a formulation containing onlybronzers (no DHA). The preferred range of FD&C dyes in commerciallyformulated liquid form (e.g., food coloring by Adams Extract Co.,Austin, Tex.) is 1 to 50%, with a more preferred range of 4 to 12%.Ethoxydiglycol is added to enhance the penetration of the dyes into theskin, to reduce transfer to clothing, and to assist in the stabilizationof the formulation. The preferred ethoxydiglycol range is 1 to 20%, witha more preferred range of 2 to 10%.

[0139] Alcohol can be added to the composition to accelerate the rate ofdrying. Denatured ethanol (USP grade, commodity chemical) works well inthis capacity. The preferred range for alcohol concentration is from1.0% to 50.0%, with a more preferred range from 10.0% to 30.0%, and amost preferred concentration of 20.0%.

[0140] Other potential additives include:

[0141] moisturizers,

[0142] preservatives,

[0143] antimicrobials,

[0144] thickeners,

[0145] solvents,

[0146] emulsifiers,

[0147] fragrances,

[0148] stabilizers,

[0149] sun-screens,

[0150] surfactants,

[0151] pH adjusters,

[0152] anti-caking agents,

[0153] ingredients to alter the color reaction.

[0154] It typically requires about 100 ml of a 5.0% DHA composition toobtain a medium to dark tan over an entire adult body (about 2 squaremeters of skin). A single application of about 250 ml of a 9%dihydroxyacetone composition over an entire adult human body will resultin a very dark tan. The exact amount of dihydroxyacetone requireddepends on the skin type and intensity of tan desired. The tan can lastfor about 2 to 7 days, but usually lasts for 3 to 4 days. Multipleapplications will darken the tan.

[0155] The second component of the invention is the atomization of thecomposition. The required atomization can be obtained by a host of ways,most of which involve passing the composition through an orifice underpressure. Methods now used to atomize solutions include the use of thefollowing systems:

[0156] air atomization

[0157] siphon feed

[0158] gravity feed

[0159] pressure feed

[0160] internal atomization

[0161] external atomization

[0162] low pressure low volume

[0163] high volume low pressure

[0164] airless atomization

[0165] pressurized through small orifices

[0166] air-assisted

[0167] air-assisted heated

[0168] electrostatic

[0169] using charged particles

[0170] heated charged particles

[0171] high speed rotational atomizers

[0172] ultrasonic

[0173] These forms of atomization are the basis for most methods ofproducing atomized sprays, including misting and nebulization.

[0174] Using a single airless sprayer with a tip orifice of 0.6 mm, witha circular spray pattern of 12 inches at 12 inches from the tip, andwith a flow rate of approximately 400 ml/min. the entire body (excludingthe bottom of the feet) of an average-sized person can be coated withsolution in 5 to 15 seconds. In practice, the underside of the feetusually get slightly tanned also from exposure to small quantities ofresidual artificial tanning composition on the floor of applicationarea. The use of a single airless sprayer to apply a composition tohuman skin is illustrated in FIG. 2. In this figure and subsequentfigures, 11 designates the orifice for atomization of the composition,12 designates the atomized spray, and 13 designates the subject beingsprayed. In this configuration, an operator must direct the flow of thespray. The configuration illustrated in FIG. 2 would also work for anyof the other atomization methods aforementioned, and for any of theapplications aforementioned. The preferred atomization method is thepressure-fee air-atomization system, with an internal or externalatomization configuration.

[0175] For a person to be coated as illustrated in FIG. 2 with anartificial tanning composition (or any composition of the applicationsaforementioned), several precautions should be taken. First, the personshould hold their breath during the application and during the timerequired for the spray to clear. If this process is done in an openarea, the coating should take about 5 to 15 seconds and the clearing ofresidues should take 1 to 10 seconds. Thus, the person would need tohold their breath for 6 to 25 seconds. Alternatively, they could wear afilter over their mouth, have a filter inside of their mouth, or use abreathing tube. They can also wear nose plugs or filters. Second, theeyes should be protected even though most of these formulations are notlikely to injure the eye. The simplest and most effective protection isto keep the eyes closed. Goggles or patches also work well, althoughthey leave uncoated areas that must be subsequently coated manually.Next, precautions need to be taken if one wants to avoid the exposure ofscalp hair. Scalp hair can be protected with a shower cap or any othersimilar protective covering impervious to the coating compositions.Also, hair can be coated with a water insoluble material such aspetroleum jelly. Similar protection can be used to protect hair on anyother parts of the body. Next, if atomization is from a single source,it is recommended that the person being coated turn while being coated,or that the coating apparatus be moved around the person being coated,or there be a combination of these movements. Finally, care must betaken that the nozzle remain at least several inches from the personbeing coated to prevent any possible injection of composition into theperson. Generally, spray injection occurs at pressures greater than 500psi with the person actually contacting the atomization orifice. Thepressures here are less than 80 psi, and more typically 10 to 40 psi,and the person being coated should be a foot or more from the orifice.The issue of what to wear during coating is usually of great concern tothe person being coated. In the case of coating with artificial tanningsolution, the selection of what to wear is a matter of preference forthe person being coated. The subject can be coated nude, with underwear,with a bikini or a bathing suit, or with some form of pasties coveringtheir private parts.

[0176] The third component of the invention is containment of the spray.Containment is illustrated in FIG. 3. In this figure and subsequentfigures, 14 and 15 designate side panels and 16 and 17 designate the topand bottom panels, respectively. This type of containment is similar tothe containment of spray paint using paint booths in automobilerefinishing. Alternatively, spray containment can be obtained usingelectrostatic forces, where the atomized spray is charged and theresidual charged spray is removed by activating charged collectionplates. Of course, precautions must be taken so that the person beingsprayed and the operator are isolated from the charged plates.

[0177] Containment of the spray is very important for several reasons.These reasons include but are not limited to:

[0178] reducing waste,

[0179] avoiding spray getting onto and staining items in the immediatesurroundings,

[0180] facilitating capture and recovery processes,

[0181] better control of air flow,

[0182] better control of temperature and humidity.

[0183] This type containment facilitates the use of this invention inenclosed areas such as stores or medical facilities.

[0184] Control of air and spray flow is very important to the quality ofthe skin coating. It is highly preferable to have an exhaust fan drawingthe spray towards the person being coated, and the residual compositionout of the booth. In FIG. 4 is shown the addition of an exhaust fan 18.The fan offers several significant advantages to the invention. Theseadvantages include but are not limited to:

[0185] better control of air flow

[0186] shorter exposure to residue spray, requiring less time to holdbreath or breathe through filter or air line

[0187] faster drying of the coated composition on skin

[0188] better quality coating

[0189] The fan 18 should have a flow of 10 to 5000 cubic feet per minuteper square foot of opening, preferably 50 to 1000 cubic feet per minuteper square foot, and most preferably 100 to 400 cubic feet per minuteper square foot. At flow rates of below 100 cubic feet per minute persquare foot, the air movement is sufficient to guide the atomized spraythrough the containment area. At flow rates of 100 to 400 cubic feet perminute per square foot, the atomized spray is being actively drawnthrough the containment area and the application and drying process isenhanced. At rates above 400 cubic feet per minute per square foot, theatomized spray is being accelerated and the exhaust flow plays a muchmore prominent role in the application process. The flow rate of the airthrough the containment area is therefore a major parameter which can bevaried to modify the characteristics of the coating of the artificialtanning composition to the skin. The drying time for the compositiondeposited on skin is also effected by flow rate, with drying timedecreasing as flow rates increase. At rates above 100 cubic feet perminute per square foot, the drying time (to the point of no transfer toother surfaces upon contact) is less than 5 minutes.

[0190] At any flow rate above 10 cubic feet per minute per square foot,the residual atomized spray is completely removed from the containmentarea within one second. This rapid removal is important to minimize thetime the person being tanned is exposed to spray and has the potentialto inhale this spray. In the absence of this air flow, the residualspray lingers in the area for several minutes, and traces can bedetected hours later. This vigorous flow also protects any individualsor operators near the atomizing orifices from back spray.

[0191] The final element of this invention is recovery, or filtering, ofresidual composition. This feature greatly enhances the utility of theinvention because it allows the system to be self-contained in an indoorenvironment and promotes a more environmentally friendly process.Without a recovery system, there is a potential for the exhaustedresidue to stain anything it contacts. Also, there could be anaccumulation of residue with time. One configuration of the recoverysystem is shown in FIG. 5. In this figure and subsequent figures, therecovery system or filter is denoted as 19. Recovery of bothparticulates and solvents is possible. Potential filters include ahigh-efficiency filter such as Binks' (FranklinPark, Ill.) Paint Pocketsor Columbus Industries' (Ashville, Ohio) High-Capacity Supra Mini-Mesh,a form of a carbon filter, a water-wash filter, or an exchange-typeresin. The efficiency of particulate and solvent removal should begreater than 99%. As an alternative to high-efficiency filtering, thespray residuals could be vented to the outside environment.

[0192] Additional features adding to the utility of the invention areshown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7. In FIG. 6 there is shown the addition of amotorized turntable 20. This turntable 20 will rotate the person beingcoated, eliminating rotation by the individual as a possible source oferror or problems. It also is a major convenience for the person beingcoated. The preferred rate of rotation is in the range of 1 to 60 rpm,with a more preferred range of 5 to 20 rpm, with a most preferred rateof rotation of 12 rpm.

[0193] In FIG. 7 there is shown the use of multiple atomizing orifices.The use of multiple orifices facilitates the automation of this process,and reduces operator effort and potential error. It also reduces thetime required to fully coat an individual. The typical round spraypattern is about 12 inches wide at 8 to 12 inches from the orifices, soa preferred spacing of multiple orifices will be 8 to 12 inches apart,but could be positioned from 1 to 48 inches apart. Fan patterns fromwide-angle nozzles at 18 inches are typically 24 inches long and 9inches wide. Using the preferred configuration, an individual can becoated in 5 seconds or less. In FIG. 7, the orifices are aligned in avertical pattern. The coverage of more area at one time could also beobtained by rapidly moving one or more orifices along a track or byrapidly altering the angle of the orifice. Other patterns are possible,including combinations of vertical and horizontally aligned orifices.Orifices could also be aligned radially, with the subject being sprayedwith orifices aligned from 0 to 360°. Another alignment is a horizontalring containing orifices that surround the body. By vertically raisingand lowering the horizontal ring, the entire body or selected parts ofthe body could be coated.

[0194] In an open environment, such as a beach or a park, a modifiedversion of configuration illustrated in FIG. 7 could be used to rapidlycoat an individual. It would even be possible to have a walk-throughcoating system. An atomized spray could be produced from multiplenozzles arranged in a single line (as shown in FIG. 7), in two singlelines facing one another and about 36 to about 48 inches apart, ormultiple lines of nozzles. The preferred configuration is multiplelines, with 4 lines being adequate. The atomized spray results in anarea of intense atomized solution, which would coat an individualstanding in that area. The residual spray would then be dissipated intothe surrounding environment. A fan could be used to accelerate theremoval of the residuals from the coating area.

[0195]FIG. 8 illustrates how the system of the present invention can beused to tan a selected part of the body. In this case, just the face isbeing tanned. In this figure the bottom panel of the apparatus 22contains an opening through which one can insert his or her head. Thetop panel 23 is arched. The high-efficiency filter is 19. The fan andback panel is 15. Alternately, the setup as shown in FIGS. 2-7 could beused to tan only a select part of the body by protecting the area notdesired to be tanned with appropriate barrier apparel or by screensbetween the atomized spray and the regions of the skin not to be coated.The barrier apparel could be any material impervious to the atomizedcoating composition. For example, materials appropriate for use with theaforementioned coating compositions include vinyl, polyurethane, andlatex rubber. The screens can be sheets composed of any materialimpervious to the atomized artificial tanning compositions, includingmost metals or plastics. A preferred screening material is foam with animpervious aluminum foil backing. The foam is aligned with the backingaway from the atomizing orifice. The foam is preferred because itabsorbs much of the atomized spray, reducing back deflection.

[0196]FIGS. 9, 10, 11, and 12 illustrate an apparatus which may beutilized in the practice of the invention. The apparatus 30 comprises aunitary construction which includes both a coating chamber 32 adapted toreceive a person to be coated with a predetermined substance and variouscomponents utilized to effect spraying of the predetermined substanceonto the person situated within the coating chamber 32.

[0197] The coating chamber 32 includes a door 34 which affords ingressto and egress from the coating chamber. The coating chamber 32 isfurther provided with a plurality of spray columns 32. As is best shownin FIG. 10, the spray columns 36 are located at spaced apart pointsaround the periphery of the chamber 32. Those skilled in the art willappreciate the fact that neither the number nor the precise location ofthe spray columns 36 is critical to the practice of the invention, andthat other spray column arrangements may be utilized in the practice ofthe invention, if desired.

[0198] The spray columns 36 are preferably supported for pivotalmovement through predetermined arcs under the action of a pneumaticcylinder 38. In this manner the predetermined material is dischargedfrom the spray columns 36 in such a way as to assure uniform coating ofthe predetermined material on a person situated within the spray chamber32. The pneumatic cylinder 38 is connected to the pivoting mechanism ofeach of the spray columns 36 through a plurality of links 40.

[0199] Referring again to FIG. 9, further includes a blower 46 whichdirects a flow of air upwardly along an air guide 48 and then laterallyalong a top panel 50 into engagement with a plurality of baffles 52. Thebaffles 52 direct the air from the blower 46 downwardly through thecoating chamber 32, whereby the flowing air effects drying of thesprayed material and aids in recovery of the sprayed material for reuse.From the coating chamber 32 the air is directed through a plurality offilters 54 and is returned to the blower 46.

[0200] The predetermined material which is to be coated onto a personsituated within the coating chamber 32 is preferably provided in theform of a liquid which is received in a reservoir 60. The interior ofthe reservoir 60 is pressurized by compressed air which is received froman air compressor 62 through an air tank 64. Compressed air from the aircompressor 62 in the tank 64 is also directed to an air tank 66 and to amanifold 68. The air tank 66 provides compressed air for operating thepneumatic cylinder (FIG. 10). The manifold 68 directs compressed air thespray columns 36.

[0201] Ideally, all of the liquid from the reservoir 60 which isdischarged from the spray columns 36 would be received on the body ofthe person within the coating chamber 32. In actual practice, it is notpossible to obtain 100% efficiency in the coating procedure. Excessliquid which is discharged from the spray columns moves downwardly underthe action of gravity onto a drain ramp 72. A drain pump 74 receives theexcess liquid through a suction pipe 76 and delivers it to anappropriate drain.

[0202] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, each spray column 36 includes aninner tubular passageway 84 which receives liquid from the reservoir 60under the action of compressed air supplied by the air compressor 62through the tank 64 and an outer tubular passageway 86 which receivescompressed air from the manifold 68. Each spray column 36 is providedwith a plurality of nozzles 88. Each nozzle 88 receives compressed airfrom the outer tubular passageway 86 through a quick disconnect 90 andreceives liquid from the inner tubular passageway 84 through a quickdisconnect 92. A check valve 94 prevents reverse flow of liquid backthrough the quick disconnect 92.

Features Contributing Significantly to the Successful Operation of anAutomated Coating System for the Human Body Incorporating the Invention

[0203] Preferred Formula:

[0204] The preferred formula is a combination of water,dihydroxyacetone, bronzer, moisturizer, surfactant, and penetrationenhancer. The formula is: water base 62.6%   36%-85.9% dihydroxyacetoneself-tanning 9.0%  3%-15% bronzer* cosmetic colorant 5.0%  0%-10% ethoxydiglycol penetration enhancer 4.0%  0%-10% commercial film former,viscosity 18.0% 10%-25% moisturizer lotion** commercial bath surfactant1.2% 0%-2% product*** citric acid pH adjustment 0.2% 0.1% to 1.0%

[0205] Foot Shields:

[0206] The feet are one of the most difficult parts of the body to coatuniformly. This difficulty is due in large part to the irregularstructure of feet. Also, the downward motion of the atomized mist, bothby gravity and from air currents, tends to cause the mist to settle onthe tops of the feet. Therefore, the feet are provided with shields toassure a more uniform coating of the feet. The shields may take the formof a large, bottomless shoe. The shields produce a silhouette effectfrom the top of the feet to the toes. Holes and openings are provided inthe shields which are located 0.25 to 2 inches from the feet, allowingthe mist to result in a silhouette effect rather that defined lines.

[0207] Air Shield to Deflect Air Away From the Feet:

[0208] To reduce the amount of mist settling on the feet, a plasticshield shaped like a FIG. 8 is placed between the fleximat flooring theuser stands on and the metal grating supporting the fleximat. Dimensionsof the figure eight are two 18 inch diameter overlapping circles with atotal width of 26 inches. The total width can vary from 18 inches to 36inches, and the circle diameters can vary from 12 inches to 20 inches.

[0209] Toweling Buffing After Coating:

[0210] After coating it is advantageous to use a towel rub to buff overthe entire body to yield a more uniform coating and to remove any areasof excess. The toweling yields a more cosmetically pleasing result andreduces transfer to clothing. It is preferred to towel using long, lightstrokes. A cotton bath towel 16 inches by 32 inches may be used. Thetowel could vary from a hand cloth (8″×8″) to a large beach towel(18″×48″). Care must be taken not to rub so hard or too much as to ruboff the coating (or tan). Basically, the weight of the preferred towelis adequate, without additional pressure.

[0211] Stance During Coating:

[0212] The stance using during the coating is important. After trial andevaluation of numerous methods, it has been discovered that the“ballerina stance” seems to work best. Key elements of the stance are:

[0213] hands over the head

[0214] preferred 2 inches

[0215] lower limit—hands touching head

[0216] upper limit—arms extended fully up

[0217] hands parallel to the floor

[0218] hands could be, but not recommended to be, perpendicular to

[0219] floor in a praying stance, or facing downwardly

[0220] feet separated about 12 inches

[0221] to allow mist to coat inside of legs

[0222] feet are flat on flooring

[0223] use of feet shields as described above

[0224] Hair Net:

[0225] Although the above-described self-tanning solution does not turnhair orange, it may accumulate on hair. To avoid this accumulation, theuser can wear a hair net or bouffant. Preferred compositions for thehairnet include a cloth or plastic mesh or a continues plastic sheet.

[0226] Barrier Cream:

[0227] It has been discovered that the commercial barrier cream producedby GoJo blocks the tanning solution from the skin. During the coatingprocess, this lotion can be used to prevent tanning of specific areas,such as the palms of the hands.

[0228] High Efficiency Filter:

[0229] The use of high efficiency filters to remove excess mist isimportant. Preferably, a Binks high-efficiency paint-pockets filter isused.

[0230] Recharging of Filter:

[0231] It has been discovered that the tanning solution trapped in thefilter can be removed with a water rinse. The solution, which is watersoluble, is flushed out using water that is back-washed (water appliedto the top surface opposite of the surface facing the solution) orwater, preferably under moderate (greater than 60 psi) pressure, that ishosed on the filtered surface.

[0232] Uniform Air Flow:

[0233] Uniformity of air flow is very important to assure that the mistcontinues to be applied uniformly over the body even after thepressurized spray stops. Airflow parameters are, in the downward motion:most preferred 100 cfm next preferred 50 cfm to 200 cfm next preferred25 cfm to 300 cfm

[0234] Warming of Air:

[0235] Atomization of liquids as done here by the nozzles results in asignificant reduction in liquid temperature (as much as 20° F.). To keepthe temperature to a warm, pleasant experience, four halogen lamps (250watts each) can be added to the system to provide both illumination andheat. A coating chamber temperature of 80° F. to 110° F. is preferred,with 90° F. to 100° F. being more preferred. Other heating devicesinclude infrared lamps and electrical heating elements.

EXAMPLES Example 1

[0236] A twenty year old female of type III skin tanned by this process.She first applied a heart shaped sticker on her right arm. She coveredher hair with a nylon mesh hair net and applied barrier cream over thepalms of her hands. She tanned in the coating chamber. The formula abovewas coated for 7 seconds. About 300 grams of solution was applied duringsuch time. There was a subsequent 7 second period in which the mist wascirculated in the booth. The residual mist was removed from the boothand the subject dried for about 45 seconds. The subject then removed anyexcess lotion with a towel. The final result was that the subject was 1to 2 shades darker after tanning. This difference was especiallyapparent when comparing the area under the sticker with the area with nosticker. The initial color was mainly from the bronzer, and is a deepbrown color. Color was much more intense the next day, when the colorwas at least two shades darker than before tanning. After the subjectshowered, the intensity was dropped to about 1 shade darker than priorto tanning. This color, which was mainly from the dihydroxyacetone, wasgolden-brown. The color persisted about 1 shade darker for 3-4 days, andnoticeable color was present for 7 days.

Example 2

[0237] A forty seven year old male with type II skin tanned by thisprocess. He first applied a heart shaped sticker on his right arm. Hecovered his hair with a nylon mesh hair net and applied barrier creamover the palms of his hands and the bottoms of his feet. He tanned inthe coating chamber. The formula above was coated for 7 seconds. About300 grams of solution was applied during time. There was a subsequent 7second period in which the mist was circulated in the booth. Theresidual mist was removed from the booth and the subject dried for about45 seconds. The subject then removed any excess lotion with a towel. Thefinal result was that the subject was about 1 shade darker aftertanning. This difference was especially apparent when comparing the areaunder the sticker with the area with no sticker. The initial color wasmainly from the bronzer, and is a deep brown color. Color was much moreintense the next day, when the color was one to two shades darker thanbefore tanning. After the subject showered, the intensity was dropped toabout 1 shade darker than prior to tanning. This color, which was mainlyfrom the dihydroxyacetone, was golden-brown. The subject repeated thetanning process again later the second day. This time, the initial tanfrom the combination of previous tan and new bronzer was about 2 shadesdarker than before. Even after showering the next day, the tan was abouttwo shades darker than prior to initially tanning. The color persistedabout 2 shade darker for 3-4 days, and noticeable color was present for10 days.

Example 3

[0238] A 24 year old female with type II skin tanned as described inexamples 1 and 2 for five consecutive days. The results were a highlyuniform, very dark tan. Her skin color was about 3 shades darker by theend of the week. The color was golden brown. The color remained 2 to 3shades darker for about 4 days, and some color (about 1 shade) wasobserved after 7 days.

Discoveries

[0239] Hair is Not Turned Orange:

[0240] Self-tanning lotions have been reported to turn body hair orange.The formulation and application of the present invention do not causethe hair to turn orange. First, the formulation does not penetrate thehair, but rather beads up on it. Next, it is applied in a very thincoat. The net result is that the hair does not turn orange.

[0241] Produces a Very Uniform Tan:

[0242] The present invention facilitates the application of a thin,uniform film over the entire body. Consequently, the resulting coatingand tan is far superior to manual application methods.

[0243] Bronzer Tends to Last Longer Than Expected:

[0244] The bronzer provides immediate color and a method for observingthe uniformity of the tan. The uniformity of the bronzer application isgreatly enhance because it is applied in a uniform thin film and itssubstantivity is enhanced because of deeper penetration into skin withthe presence of a penetration enhancer. Use of Ethoxy Diglycol as aPenetration Enhancer Makes the Tan Last Longer and More Uniform:

[0245] With the use of ethoxy diglycol, the duration of uniform intensetan has increase from an average of about 2 days to an average of about4 days, and some color persists for up to 14 days.

[0246] Although preferred embodiments of the invention are illustratedin the Drawings and described in the Detailed Description, it will beunderstood that the invention is not limited to the embodimentsdisclosed, but is capable of numerous modifications and rearrangementsof parts and elements without departing from the spirit of theinvention.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for coating the human body with apredetermined human skin self tanning material comprising: structuredefining a coating chamber for receiving a person to be coated; areservoir for receiving the predetermined human skin tanning material inliquid form; at least one nozzle positioned within the coating chamberfor receiving the predetermined human skin self tanning liquid from thereservoir and for spraying the predetermined human skin self tannin,liquid onto the skin of the person in the coating chamber; the structuredefining the coating chamber further comprising apparatus for containingspray from the nozzle which is not received on the skin of the person;and apparatus for disposing of the contained spray.
 2. The apparatus forcoating the human body with a predetermined human skin self tanningmaterial according to claim 1 further comprising: apparatus forpressurizing the interior of the reservoir and thereby dischargingliquid from the reservoir through the nozzle.
 3. The apparatus forcoating the human body with a predetermined human skin self tanningmaterial according to claim 1 further including: apparatus forcirculating air through the coating chamber; and at least one filter forremoving excess spray from the circulating air.
 4. An apparatus forcoating the body of a person with a predetermined human skin selftanning material in liquid form comprising: an enclosure defining acoating chamber for receiving the person to be coated; a reservoir forreceiving the predetermined human skin self tanning liquid; at least onenozzle positioned within the coating chamber for receiving thepredetermined human skin self tanning liquid from the reservoir and fordischarging the liquid onto the skin of the person within the coatingchamber; apparatus for causing the predetermined human skin self tanningliquid to flow from the reservoir through the nozzle for discharge inthe form of a spray; the structure defining the coating chamber furthercomprising apparatus for containing excess spray from the nozzle whichis not received on the skin of the person; apparatus for disposing ofthe contained excess spray; apparatus for circulating air through thecoating chamber during the discharge of the predetermined human skinself tanning liquid from the nozzle; and at least one filter forremoving excess spray from the circulating air.